Alternative Break

What is an Alternative Break with the American Hiking Society?

American Hiking Society’s Alternative Breaks are volunteer trail stewardship projects in America’s parks and forests designed specifically for college student groups. Part volunteer work project, part kick-back outdoor vacation. Read the General Information page for more details.

The Crew

Alternative Break crews are generally 8-15 students. Supervision during the project will be provided by our experienced project hosts. Each trip has a group minimum that must be met to secure your group’s week. If you want to volunteer over your break as an individual, visit here to see all the trips we are offering as part of our year-round Volunteer Vacations program that are open for individual registration.

The Setup

Most trips last one week with weekends used for group travel. Alternative Breaks combine day hiking, trail work, exploration, crew camaraderie, and FUN into a weeks time and are scheduled for your student group to participate during your school break. Never been hiking or done trail work before? We welcome you! Alternative Breaks don’t require any prior trail work experience, just a good attitude and a willingness to get a little dirty!

The Accommodations

Lodging options vary depending on the trip you choose. Alternative Breaks will offer either indoor accommodations (bunkhouses, cabins, lodges) or access to a campground site where you bring your own tent and camping supplies. All location will offer access to indoor bathrooms and either a full service kitchen or camp cooking gear for meal prep.

The Experience

Make new friends and share laughter over a campfire. Experience an amazing sense of accomplishment after building a bridge or restoring a neglected trail. Connect with the land. Experience nature first-hand. Spend your break doing something that makes a lasting difference.

Spending a week in the woods, volunteering outside every day, & forming close friendships with other participants was truly a fantastic experience.

Mackenzie H., Ohio State University

We all felt very proud to be part of this project & are looking forward to visiting the trails we built in our future.

Taylor W., University of Wisconsin

Everyone felt a sense of community with the park staff & with each other even though we had all just met. It really brought us all together.

Morgan W., Centre College

Thanks for your interest in the Alternative Break program! Please read through the General Information which will answer many of the logistical questions you may have about the program, including pricing, accommodations, and meals. Registration details can also be found there.

If you are ready to secure a particular week/location for your group please contact Libby Wile at LWile@AmericanHiking.org or call 1-800-972-8608 ext. 704.

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